Bad signs after ACL surgery
Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) surgery is a crucial procedure that helps restore knee stability and function following an injury.
While most patients recover successfully, certain bad signs after ACL surgery can indicate complications that may need prompt treatment.
Paying attention to these warning signs ensures timely intervention, avoiding further damage and promoting a smooth recovery.
Understanding ACL surgery and recovery
ACL reconstruction surgery involves replacing the torn ligament with a graft from another tendon. The recovery process takes an average of 3 months.
Physical therapy is crucial to regaining flexibility, strength, and knee stability post-surgery. However, some patients may experience bad signs after ACL and meniscus surgery, which should not be ignored.
Watch out for bad signs after ACL and meniscus surgery
Excessive swelling that doesn’t improve
Mild to moderate swelling is normal in the initial weeks after ACL surgery. However, persistent or increasing swelling beyond the expected recovery period could signal:
- Infection
- Blood clot (deep vein thrombosis – DVT)
- Fluid accumulation (effusion)
Severe pain beyond the expected level
Post-surgical discomfort is expected, but severe, sharp, or persistent pain may indicate:
- Infection – Pain accompanied by redness, warmth, or pus drainage suggests an infection.
- Graft failure – If pain worsens instead of improving, it could mean the ACL graft is failing.
- Meniscus damage – In cases of combined ACL and meniscus surgery, undiagnosed meniscus tears can cause ongoing pain.
Limited range of motion (ROM)
Patients typically regain knee movement progressively. If the knee remains stiff or locked, potential issues include:
- Arthrofibrosis (knee stiffness) – Excessive scar tissue that restricts range of motion.
- Cartilage damage – Damage to joint surfaces, thereby hindering mobility.
- Improper rehabilitation – Not adhering to physiotherapy protocols can cause long-term stiffness.
Instability or feeling of giving way
A reconstructed ACL should provide knee stability. If you feel like your knee buckles or gives way, possible causes include:
- Graft failure – The ACL graft may not be healing properly.
- Weak quadriceps muscles – Poor muscle support can cause instability.
- Improper graft placement – If the new ACL is incorrectly positioned, it can lead to mechanical failure.
Signs of infection
Surgical infections can develop in the incision area or within the knee joint. Watch out for:
- Persistent redness and warmth around the incision
- Pus or foul-smelling drainage
- Fever above 101°F (38°C)
- Unusual fatigue and malaise
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) – Blood clot formation
A serious but rare complication after ACL surgery is DVT, a blood clot that can travel to the lungs, causing a life-threatening condition. Symptoms include:
- Swelling in the calf or thigh
- Pain or tenderness in one leg
- Warmth and redness in the affected area
- Shortness of breath (if the clot moves to the lungs).
Clicking or popping sounds
Mild popping sounds during recovery are normal. However, loud, painful clicking or popping may indicate:
- Meniscus tear – Damage to the cartilage cushioning the knee.
- Graft failure – The new ligament may not function properly.
- Misaligned kneecap – Improper alignment of the patella.
Preventing Complications After ACL Surgery
To lessen the chances of any complications, follow these steps:
- Stick to your rehabilitation plan – Consistently perform prescribed exercises.
- Monitor for abnormal symptoms – Keep track of pain, swelling, and mobility progress.
- Use proper knee support – Wear a brace as instructed by your doctor.
- Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet – Nutritional support aids recovery.
- Attend follow-up visits – Regular checkups help detect and address potential issues early.
It is time to consult Dr. Hesham Al-Khateeb.
If you notice any of these bad signs after ACL and meniscus surgery, it is crucial to seek expert medical advice.
Dr. Hesham Al-Khateeb specializes in cutting-edge orthopedic care, ensuring a customized recovery plan tailored to your needs.
Experiencing unusual symptoms after ACL surgery? Book an appointment today.
